A Gathering of Women

Historical Overview

From the 1930's to the present, Arkansas women continue to face numerous challenges to educational attainment and employment advancement. Along with factors of race and socio-economic status, the experiences of women in Arkansas vary according to regional differences within the state. In particular, women in urban areas of the state are historically more likely to pursue advanced education and more likely to work outside of the home. Despite statewide advancements by women, these trends continue in Arkansas today.According to the 1950 census, less than three percent of women in the state had completed 4 years of college. When the numbers are broken down by regions, the differences are highlighted. Although the 1970 census reports that a larger percentage of women had completed four years of college and a greater number of women were employed outside of the home, regional differences continued.In addition to statistical regional differences, women in Arkansas face geographically based prejudices. Regional stereotypes held by and about women present challenges to statewide advancement. Women view the Delta as "less educated and more poverty stricken." They perceive Central Arkansas as having "better schools" and "greater job opportunities" despite "suffering from inner-city poverty" and having "more crime." Similar to the Delta, women believe the Ozarks to be largely rural with "lower educational levels and fewer jobs." Despite its geographic proximity to the Ozarks, women consider Northwest Arkansas to be "relatively affluent" with "excellent schools and some industries." Although historic regional differences may be the basis for these views, the impact of these stereotypes remains an issue for Arkansas women today.